Akwa Ibom @ 38: Akparawa Ini Obot Hails Pastor Eno's Divine Leadership, Supports 2027 Mandate

The 38th anniversary of the creation of Akwa Ibom has drawn commendation for Governor Umo Eno, with the National Youth Leader of Uyo Senatorial District Peoples' Initiative (USPI), Akparawa (Elder) Iniobong Obot, praising him for leading the state in God’s direction and advancing a humanity-first vision through the ARISE Agenda.

The multiple award-winning finance professional, told newsmen on Sunday after the anniversary thanksgiving service at the International Christian Worship Centre, Uyo, that the Governor’s call for unity, forgiveness, and patriotism captured the true essence of the celebration. He described Pastor Eno’s style as “divine leadership,” combining spirituality with practical governance to deliver real benefits to citizens.

The Nsit Atai-born philanthropist listed the Governor’s achievements which stand out as befitting gifts to Akwa Ibomites in this season of celebration. These, he said, include the clearing of gratuities and pensions backlog, housing schemes for civil servants, free food distribution to households, MSME empowerment grants worth hundreds of millions, provision of official vehicles to Permanent Secretaries, as well as the commissioning of primary healthcare centres and model schools across the 31 LGAs. He further pointed to signature projects such as the ARISE Recreational Resort, Songhai Model Farms, ongoing road constructions, including the ones in Nsit Atai and the establishment of Ibom Community Watch for grassroots security as clear evidence of a Governor delivering on his promises.

According to Obongunwana Ini Obot, Governor Umo Eno’s superlative performance in just two years has renewed public faith, rekindled hope, and firmly positioned Akwa Ibom for greater growth. He maintained that by marrying governance with godliness, the Governor has so connected with the people that his second term is already a done deal.

Reaffirming the loyalty of the Uyo Senatorial District Peoples’ Initiative (USPI), founded by the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, Elder Obot declared that the organisation has already launched full-scale mobilisation across the district, urging members to register with the APC, secure their PVCs, and stand solidly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Umo Eno and Senate President Godswill Akpabio. He maintained that the trio form the power bloc on which the political and economic stability of Akwa Ibom rests, adding that USPI will not compromise its commitment to their success.

Obongunwana Obot also seized the occasion to commend the Senator representing Uyo Senatorial District, Sen. Aniekan Bassey and the member for Uyo/Ibesikpo Asutan/Nsit Atai/Uruan Federal Constituency, Rt Hon. Elder Mark Esset, for what he described as effective representation and massive empowerment programmes that have benefited the district and constituency. He appealed to the people to continue to rally support for the two leaders, noting that their selfless service has further strengthened the bond between government and the grassroots.

Meanwhile, our reporter reports that the 38th anniversary thanksgiving service drew dignitaries from across the State and beyond, with leaders and clerics alike affirming that Akwa Ibom, under Governor Eno, is witnessing an era of peace, inclusion, and sustained development.

Sen. Ibokessien Hails Electricity Summit, Calls Stakeholders to Support Gov Eno’s Reform

Former Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, has said that the ongoing electricity reform agenda of Governor Umo Eno will have far-reaching impact on the development of Akwa Ibom State if all stakeholders commit themselves to its success.

The political leader of Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, who dissected the opening day of the two-day Electricity Summit at Four Points by Sheraton, spoke with newsmen shortly after the event, stressing that the initiative has set a new tone for the State’s economic advancement.

The Founder of Ritman University, explained that reliable electricity supply will not only strengthen the industrial sector but also drive growth in education and research. According to him, universities and centres of learning cannot thrive in today’s world without stable energy, noting that Governor Eno has laid a strong policy foundation for sustainable growth.

The respected elder statesman, widely regarded for his political influence and leadership in Akwa Ibom, observed that business owners and households stand to benefit directly from the reform. He noted that when electricity becomes stable and affordable, small and medium enterprises will expand, employment opportunities will increase, and the economy will be stimulated in line with the ARISE Agenda.

“Governor Umo Eno has once again shown courage and vision by confronting the power challenge head-on. For decades, this has remained the biggest stumbling block to our growth as a people. Today, he has given us hope that Akwa Ibom can chart its own path within the new electricity law framework. Our duty as stakeholders is to give him every support,” he said.

Ibokessien assured that stakeholders across the political, business, and education spectrum will continue to partner with government to actualize the vision. He maintained that the private sector, and critical institutions must work together to make the reforms succeed.

“As a businessman, I see opportunities. As an educationist, I see solutions for our young people. As a political leader, I see a rallying point for development. Electricity is the backbone of all sectors, and Governor Eno has given us a clear direction. We must not allow this momentum to be wasted,” the elder statesman added.

He applauded the unveiling of the State Electricity Policy and the Electricity Law, describing it as a landmark achievement that places Akwa Ibom ahead of many sub-nationals, while urging the people to stand united behind the Governor to make the vision work.

Uyo Lawmaker Hon. Asuquo Hails Security Trust Fund Launch, Assures of His Constituency Support

 

The Chairman, House Committee on Security, Youth and Sports in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon. Uwemedimo Diana-Abasi Asuquo, has commended Governor Umo Eno for the official launch of the Akwa Ibom State Security Trust Fund, describing it as a timely intervention that will further consolidate the State reputation as the safest in the country.

Speaking with journalists in Uyo shortly after the event at Government House Banquet Hall, the lawmaker said the initiative has underscored the Governor’s foresight in making security a shared responsibility between government, the private sector, and citizens.

Hon. Asuquo, who represents Uyo State Constituency, maintained that the fund would not only strengthen the State’s internal security framework but also enhance its growing appeal as a destination for tourism, business, and leisure. 

His words: “When security is guaranteed, investors, tourists, and residents will naturally find Akwa Ibom as the preferred choice.”

The legislator said the recognition of Akwa Ibom as one of the safest states in the Country would be further deepened with the institutional framework provided by the Security Trust Fund. He explained that this would position the State as a vacation destination and broaden opportunities for commerce and development.

Asuquo also assured the Governor of the unalloyed support of the people of Uyo Constituency, stressing that the Committee on Security, Youth and Sports and the State House of Assembly would continue to work closely with the executive arm in strengthening policies and funding mechanisms that sustain peace in the State.

The lawmaker added that peace and security remain the foundation for the growth of sports and youth enterprise, noting that the Governor’s initiative will provide a safer environment for young people to thrive, innovate, and showcase their talents.

While eulogizing Governor Umo Eno’s humanity-first leadership and practical approach to governance, Capo, as he is fondly called, opined that the new initiative marked another impressive step in making Akwa Ibom a model of safety, tranquility, and peace in Africa.

Attah Applauds Security Trust Fund Launch, Says Akwa Ibom Set For Greater Prosperity

Maritime expert and Managing Director of Calakwa Integrated Services, Akparawa Johnson Attah, has applauded Governor Umo Eno for launching the Akwa Ibom State Security Trust Fund, describing the initiative as a cheering step that will further secure the state and strengthen its appeal as an investment and tourism hub.

In a chat with journalists in Uyo shortly after the event, Attah, who has over 25 years of experience in Nigeria’s shipping and logistics industry, said the security fund was timely, strategic, and in tune with global best practices of public-private partnership in security management.

The renowned maritime consultant, known for his strong advocacy on the Ibom Deep Seaport project, noted that with Akwa Ibom already rated as one of the safest states in the country, the new Trust Fund will consolidate on that record and position the state as “Paradise on earth” for investors and holidaymakers.

Gov. Eno, acknowledging cheers at the event...

The grassroots politician from Ukpum Minya Ward 4 in Mkpat Enin, said security was key to attracting businesses and sustaining tourism, stressing that Governor Eno’s decision to create the Ministry of Internal Security and launch the Ibom Community Watch initiative had already yielded results.

The Maritime expert, who has been active in policy conversations around maritime safety and development, called on the private sector, corporate leaders, and the citizenry to throw their weight behind the Security Trust Fund, adding that the dividends of peace will be shared by all.

According to Attah, the coastline advantage of 129 kilometres of Akwa Ibom, coupled with its serene environment, makes it a prime hub for economic growth and leisure.

He praised Governor Eno’s visionary and humble leadership, urging Akwa Ibom people to support him in sustaining the state as a peaceful and safe home for all.

Gov’s Aide, Idongesit Samuel, Inducted into Nigerian Institute of Management

 

...𝘋𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘔𝘪𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘗𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳 𝘌𝘯𝘰

Special Assistant on Transport to Governor Umo Eno, Mr. Idongesit Samuel, has been officially inducted as an Associate Member of the Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered).

The induction ceremony, which held on Wednesday at the Nigerian National Merit Award House, Maitama, Abuja, brought together professionals from across the country to celebrate excellence in leadership and management.

Mr. Samuel, who holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration, now entitled to use the professional designation AMNIM. He hails from Uyo urban ward 1 in Uyo Local Government Area. 

In line with the educational advancement of the ARISE Agenda, the Governor’s aide has continued to demonstrate uncommon passion for knowledge and capacity building. He has sponsored several indigenes of Uyo to further their studies in tertiary institutions, a gesture he maintained is inspired by the exemplary leadership of his principal, Governor Umo Eno.

Speaking shortly after the ceremony, the new AMNIM expressed delight at the honour, noting that the recognition would not only sharpen his managerial skills but also enhance his capacity to deliver on his mandate as Special Assistant.

While dedicating the milestone to his mentor, Governor Umo Eno, Mr. Samuel noted that the Governor’s exemplary leadership has continued to inspire excellence among his aides. He stressed that the recognition would further strengthen his resolve to support the Governor’s drive for a results-driven and people-centric administration.

𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗼 𝗛𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀 𝗚𝗼𝘃 𝗘𝗻𝗼 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝗙𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗹, 𝗦𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝟯,𝟬𝟬𝟬 𝗔𝘁𝗵𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗳𝗶𝘁

 

The Member representing Uyo State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly and Chairman, House Committee on Security, Youth and Sports, Hon. Uwemedimo Asuquo, has applauded Governor Umo Eno for breathing life back into the State Sports Festival after a seven-year hiatus.

Speaking with sports journalists and bloggers on the sidelines of the colourful opening ceremony at the Uyo Township Stadium, the lawmaker said the Governor has once again demonstrated vision and commitment to youth development in line with the ARISE Agenda, by reviving a platform that not only nurtures talent but also strengthens unity across the state.

Capo, as he is fondly called, who described the festival as a defining moment and watershed for Akwa Ibom sports landscape, noted that no fewer than 3,000 athletes from the 31 local government areas of the state will benefit greatly, while competing in 18 different sporting events, making the 2025 edition the most ambitious in recent history.

According to him, the Governor’s decision to resuscitate the competition, alongside his approval for a Sports Academy in Eket and other world-class facilities, has placed Akwa Ibom on the path to discovering and grooming the next generation of champions. He stressed that such foresight would create jobs, promote tourism, and deepen the culture of sportsmanship among young people.

The lawmaker emphasized that as Chairman of the Assembly Committee on Security, Youth and Sports, he will continue to work closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure that the objectives of the festival are fully achieved. He maintained that the games will serve as a springboard for future stars who will represent the state and the nation with pride.

Hon Asuquo hailed the Uyo contingent for their sterling performance in the football opener, where they defeated Ikot Abasi 2 - 0. He said the victory was not just a win on the pitch but a demonstration of the talent, discipline and determination that abound among young people in Uyo, urging the team to sustain the momentum as worthy ambassadors of the constituency.

While thanking Governor Umo Eno for investing heavily in sports despite economic challenges, Asuquo, urged athletes to approach the festival with discipline, dedication, and the true spirit of competition. He assured that the House of Assembly will continue to give legislative backing to every initiative of Governor Eno, that advances youth and sports development in the state.

𝗨𝗸𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗳𝘂𝗻 𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗚𝗼𝘃 𝗘𝗻𝗼 𝗮𝘀 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗨𝗺𝗼𝗲𝗸𝗽𝗼 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗔𝗣𝗖 𝗪𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗲, 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘆 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀

Ukanafun Local Government Area came alive yesterday when the Special Assistant to Governor Umo Eno on Humanitarian Affairs, Prince (Elder) NsikanAbasi Umoekpo, inaugurated a fully furnished office for the All Progressives Congress (APC) Ward 8 at Ikot Akai Village, alongside a string of empowerment packages for party leaders and members.

In what many described as an unprecedented moment for grassroots mobilisation, Prince Umoekpo rolled out motorcycles, sewing machines, and business support items that immediately placed smiles on the faces of beneficiaries and strengthened the party’s structure in the agrarian community.

From brand-new motorcycles for the Ward Chairman, Mr. Ndifreke Etuk, and Woman Leader, Mrs. Flora Udoekpo, to a generator set and sewing machines for artisans, the initiative set a new tone for grassroots politics in the area.

Prince Umoekpo, who was flanked by his wife, Barr. Nseobong Umoekpo, and their daughter, Miss Heaven Umoekpo, said the gesture was a reflection of the people-centric leadership of his boss, Governor Umo Eno. According to the former Council boss, the governor’s style has inspired his aides to take politics beyond empty promises and make direct impact on the lives of the people.

Governor Umo Eno's Humanitarian aide announced that the office would not only serve as a rallying point for political activities in the ward but also strengthen the ongoing revalidation exercise and inject new energy into the party’s base.

The inauguration was performed by the APC State Chairman, Obong Stephen Ntukekpo, who was represented by the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District Chairman, Hon. Joseph Tombere, who described Umoekpo’s effort as “a milestone in grassroots mobilization and party reawakening.”

Also present was the Executive Chairman of Ukanafun Local Government Council, Prince Uyo Ukpanah, who commended Governor Umo Eno and Senate President Godswill Akpabio for sustaining peace in the state, while applauding Umoekpo for complementing their efforts with tangible empowerment. He backed the initiative with a support of N500,000.

Other dignitaries, including the Commissioner for Science and Digital Economy, Dr. Frank Ekpenyong (represented by former Council Chairman, Hon. Godwin Ekpe, JP), and the Member for Ukanafun in the State House of Assembly, Hon. Emem Udom, lauded the project as timely. Hon. Udom not only aligned with Governor Eno’s leadership but also supported the event with N200,000, 20 plastic chairs, and fueling allowance for the motorcycles.

The empowerment train rolled on with further donations: Barr. Morgan Ekanem, SSA to the Governor on Special Duties, gave N1 million as business grants to ward members; Dcn. Ndiana-Abasi Udom supported with fuel packages for motorcycles and sewing machines, while Hon. Ubokobong Udoworen, APC Youth Leader, pledged another motorcycle for the Ward Youth Leader.

Party stakeholders across the ward poured encomiums on Prince Umoekpo, describing his gesture as a selfless investment in unity and growth. Ward Chairman Ndifreke Etuk pledged to utilize the office effectively, while the Woman Leader, Mrs. Flora Udoekpo, who received a motorcycle, said the support would ease mobilization and strengthen the party at the grassroots.

The event, which drew traditional rulers, political leaders, party faithful and community stakeholders, climaxed with the revalidation of APC members, including Barr. Nseobong Umoekpo and Miss Heaven Umoekpo, further cementing the ward’s readiness for future political engagements.

With this gesture, 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝑯𝑰𝑳𝑳 observed that Ukanafun once again celebrated Governor Umo Eno’s brand of people-first politics, as Prince Umoekpo translated his boss’s philosophy into action by bringing governance closer to the people and giving politics a true human face.𝗨𝗸𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗳𝘂𝗻 𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗚𝗼𝘃 𝗘𝗻𝗼 𝗮𝘀 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗨𝗺𝗼𝗲𝗸𝗽𝗼 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗔𝗣𝗖 𝗪𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗲, 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘆 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀

Ukanafun Local Government Area came alive yesterday when the Special Assistant to Governor Umo Eno on Humanitarian Affairs, Prince (Elder) NsikanAbasi Umoekpo, inaugurated a fully furnished office for the All Progressives Congress (APC) Ward 8 at Ikot Akai Village, alongside a string of empowerment packages for party leaders and members.

In what many described as an unprecedented moment for grassroots mobilisation, Prince Umoekpo rolled out motorcycles, sewing machines, and business support items that immediately placed smiles on the faces of beneficiaries and strengthened the party’s structure in the agrarian community.

From brand-new motorcycles for the Ward Chairman, Mr. Ndifreke Etuk, and Woman Leader, Mrs. Flora Udoekpo, to a generator set and sewing machines for artisans, the initiative set a new tone for grassroots politics in the area.

Prince Umoekpo, who was flanked by his wife, Barr. Nseobong Umoekpo, and their daughter, Miss Heaven Umoekpo, said the gesture was a reflection of the people-centric leadership of his boss, Governor Umo Eno. According to the former Council boss, the governor’s style has inspired his aides to take politics beyond empty promises and make direct impact on the lives of the people.

Governor Umo Eno's Humanitarian aide announced that the office would not only serve as a rallying point for political activities in the ward but also strengthen the ongoing revalidation exercise and inject new energy into the party’s base.

The inauguration was performed by the APC State Chairman, Obong Stephen Ntukekpo, who was represented by the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District Chairman, Hon. Joseph Tombere, who described Umoekpo’s effort as “a milestone in grassroots mobilization and party reawakening.”

Also present was the Executive Chairman of Ukanafun Local Government Council, Prince Uyo Ukpanah, who commended Governor Umo Eno and Senate President Godswill Akpabio for sustaining peace in the state, while applauding Umoekpo for complementing their efforts with tangible empowerment. He backed the initiative with a support of N500,000.

Other dignitaries, including the Commissioner for Science and Digital Economy, Dr. Frank Ekpenyong (represented by former Council Chairman, Hon. Godwin Ekpe, JP), and the Member for Ukanafun in the State House of Assembly, Hon. Emem Udom, lauded the project as timely. Hon. Udom not only aligned with Governor Eno’s leadership but also supported the event with N200,000, 20 plastic chairs, and fueling allowance for the motorcycles.

The empowerment train rolled on with further donations: Barr. Morgan Ekanem, SSA to the Governor on Special Duties, gave N1 million as business grants to ward members; Dcn. Ndiana-Abasi Udom supported with fuel packages for motorcycles and sewing machines, while Hon. Ubokobong Udoworen, APC Youth Leader, pledged another motorcycle for the Ward Youth Leader.

Party stakeholders across the ward poured encomiums on Prince Umoekpo, describing his gesture as a selfless investment in unity and growth. Ward Chairman Ndifreke Etuk pledged to utilize the office effectively, while the Woman Leader, Mrs. Flora Udoekpo, who received a motorcycle, said the support would ease mobilization and strengthen the party at the grassroots.

The event, which drew traditional rulers, political leaders, party faithful and community stakeholders, climaxed with the revalidation of APC members, including Barr. Nseobong Umoekpo and Miss Heaven Umoekpo, further cementing the ward’s readiness for future political engagements.

With this gesture, 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝑯𝑰𝑳𝑳 observed that Ukanafun once again celebrated Governor Umo Eno’s brand of people-first politics, as Prince Umoekpo translated his boss’s philosophy into action by bringing governance closer to the people and giving politics a true human face.